Kansas City, August 9, 2025
News Summary
The second season of Tim Burton’s Netflix series ‘Wednesday’ introduces the fictional antagonist, the ‘Kansas City Scalper,’ played by Haley Joel Osment. The plot follows Wednesday Addams as she searches for this character during her summer break. Although fans are excited, it has been confirmed that the show was filmed in Ireland and Romania, not Kansas City. The scalper is inspired by notorious serial killers but remains a fictional creation, adding layers to the show’s dark humor and storytelling.
Kansas City is buzzing with excitement as the second season of Tim Burton’s Netflix series “Wednesday” introduces a new antagonist, the “Kansas City Scalper.” The character, portrayed by Haley Joel Osment, has sparked curiosity among fans, many of whom are searching online to find out if there is indeed a real “Kansas City Scalper.”
In this season, viewers follow Wednesday Addams, played by Jenna Ortega, as she embarks on a quest to hunt down the Kansas City Scalper during her summer break. A visually striking scene prominently features modest houses with the Kansas City skyline in the background, prompting local fans to express excitement on social media but also raising questions about whether any filming took place in Kansas City itself.
However, it has been confirmed that the production for “Wednesday” did not occur in Kansas City. Season 1 of the series was filmed in Romania, and Season 2 took place in Ireland. The creative team chose Ireland’s unique landscapes, including its Gothic castles and expansive forests, to represent the fictional setting of Jericho, Vermont. The Kansas City Scalper’s home featured in the show was filmed in a housing development in Newcastle, Ireland.
The character of the Kansas City Scalper is not based on a singular real person but is a composite inspired by two infamous historical figures. Lorenzo Jerome Gilyard, known as the “Kansas City Strangler,” was convicted for the murders of six women and is suspected of having committed further assaults between 1977 and 1993. On the other hand, British killer John Sweeney, dubbed the “scalp hunter,” is currently serving life in prison for the murder and dismemberment of two former girlfriends, alongside his violent attacks on other women.
Throughout Season 2, Wednesday’s encounters with the Scalper lead to an engaging storyline that involves creepy dolls representing the Scalper’s victims. The season premiered in two parts, with the initial four episodes being released on August 6, 2025, followed by the next four episodes on September 3, 2025. The premiere episode includes a memorable scene in which Wednesday confronts the Kansas City Scalper, culminating in a darkly humorous moment where she scalps him after being captured.
As the series unfolds, it continues to feature its signature blend of humor and horror, staying true to Tim Burton’s unique storytelling style. Jenna Ortega returns as Wednesday, joined by cast members Emma Myers, Joy Sunday, and Catherine Zeta-Jones. New characters are introduced as well, including Steve Buscemi, who takes on the role of the new principal of Nevermore Academy.
Showrunner Miles Millar has highlighted that the scenic attributes of Ireland greatly support the show’s Gothic sensibilities, reinforcing the visual identity fans have come to love. While the Kansas City Scalper is a fictional creation, the allusions to real-life horror stories elevate the show’s dark undertones, adding an intriguing layer to the narrative.
FAQ
What is the “Kansas City Scalper” in Season 2 of “Wednesday”?
The Kansas City Scalper is a fictional serial killer antagonist in the second season of the Netflix series “Wednesday,” portrayed by Haley Joel Osment.
Where was Season 2 of “Wednesday” filmed?
Season 2 was filmed in Ireland, while Season 1 was filmed in Romania.
Is the Kansas City Scalper based on real-life events?
While the character is fictional, it is inspired by real-life serial killers Lorenzo Jerome Gilyard and John Sweeney.
Key Features of “Wednesday” Season 2
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Antagonist | Kansas City Scalper, portrayed by Haley Joel Osment |
| Filming Locations | Filmed in Ireland; Season 1 in Romania |
| Inspirations | Composite character based on Gilyard and Sweeney |
| Premiere Dates | Part 1: August 6, 2025; Part 2: September 3, 2025 |
| Main Cast | Jenna Ortega, Emma Myers, Joy Sunday, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Steve Buscemi |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Kansas City Introduces New Villain in Wednesday Season 2
Additional Resources
- Kansas City Star
- Wikipedia: Serial killer
- The Tab
- Google Search: Wednesday season 2
- Slash Film
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tim Burton
- Geek Girl Authority
- Google News: Kansas City Scalper
- The Guardian
- Variety
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
